Why it is a Good Idea to Fix what is Broken Before Listing

Your
home is going to need some preparation before it's ready. Have
your real estate agent do a walk-through and help you put together a
to-do list. Doing a walk thru the home with new eyes can point out
items that one gets used to viewing when they live in a home on a
daily basis. Don’t feel insulted if the agent says something that
might hurt your feelings. Their job is to get the house sold and
believe me agents have heard all the comments from buyers.
Take
care of the things that take the most time first.
Fix
anything broken. That can be items like a dishwasher or an oven or a
dripping faucet even outside. If there are structural defects, such
as a cracked foundation, bring someone in to look and fix it.
Nothing
is worse than having a deal fall through because of a failed
inspection that reveals a major structural defect.
When
in doubt, consider having a home inspector do a pre-listing
inspection.
You
can then provide the inspection to prove the home is in good shape.
If
the walls are not pristine or the paint color is unique, paint them a
neutral color.
A
fresh coat of paint will make the place look better, and a neutral
color will appeal to most people.
Scuff
marks can be cleaned with a cleaning product called the Mr. Clean
Magic Eraser.
Home
buyers will usually decide not to purchase a home within the first 30
seconds.
If
the landscaping and outside appearance of the home is uninviting,
they may make that decision without ever leaving their car.
Take
a critical look at your yard and lawn. Prune dead branches,
pull weeds, and fertilize. Even a few potted plants on the porch
brighten the entrance. Curb appeal is very crucial. The goal is
to sell your house as quickly as possible for the best price and
terms.